Palm Tungsten C
The first things we noticed about the Palm is the smaller screen and the tiny keyboard just below it. Then we realised the larger screen wasn't necessary because on most PDAs, part of the screen is consumed by a virtual keyboard operated with the stylus. The inbuilt keyboard is surprisingly easy to use albeit small.
Obviously this unit runs Palm OS, which we found very easy to use and navigate. This unit can only charge using the cradle, while the HP and Toshiba allows you to connect the plug pack directly to them. Not a huge problem, but it means if you want to charge the Palm at home or on a business trip, you need to take the cradle with you.
Both the rugged units only charge through their cradles, however they are only really intended for use in or around a business.
The wireless networking configuration option was given as part of the initial wizard setup. Although the unit detected our access point, the wizard assumes you have DHCP running in your network infrastructure. If you don't, you need to enter the IP address, gateway, and name servers manually in a separate configuration page.
The Tungsten C is quite a refined device--the built-in keyboard and the use of the Palm OS could sway users towards the unit, particularly those who have used Palm previously. The smaller screen size is not a real disadvantage, particularly considering the inbuilt keyboard and the screen real estate occupied by the virtual keyboards on other PDAs.
 |
|
|
|||
| |||||
| Product: | Palm Tungsten C |
| Price: | AU$979 |
| Vendor: | Palm |
| Phone: | 1800 350 535 |
| Web: | www.palm.com/au |
| Interoperability: |
Palm OS-based, WLAN easily configured, mini keyboard may assist some users. |
| Futureproofing: |
SD slot and WLAN integrated. Smaller display may hinder some applications. |
| ROI: |
Good price for features, but should have Bluetooth at this price. |
| Service: |
12-month warranty. |
| Rating: |
½ |
